
1. Don’t train with other academies
For many academies this is a big no no. I have seen many students kicked out of an academy because they trained at the same time with an unaffiliated academy. The BJJ community is quite small and rumors about training with rival clubs spread quick so be aware. Some schools don’t have this rule and believe that sharing BJJ techniques between academies is good for your own improvement as well as for the evolution of the sport of Jiu Jitsu. If you like the idea of training at different clubs and not committing to just one, I recommend that you check with the head instructors to see if that’s OK with them.
2. Never wear shoes on the mat
This rule is quite universal in the BJJ world. Wearing shoes on the mat can damage and mark them as well as make them dirty. Dirty mats can be a health risk as they can lead to skin infections. Also remember to put your shoes back on when you get off the mat or refrain from going back onto the mat with dirty feet.
3. Never ask higher belts to spar
Some BJJ schools, especially traditional Brazilian schools frown upon lower belts asking higher belts to spar. If this is the case you may be relentlessly tapped if you dare ask the black belt for a roll. Some schools have no problem with this so it is a good idea to check with the head instructor before you ask the higher belts to spar.
4. Make way for higher belts when rolling
When there are a lot of people on the mat and little space, it is good mat manners to stop rolling with your partner and move out of the way of higher belts. If you and your training partner have the same color belts as the pair close you, either pair has right of way.
You should develop the habit of being aware of your surroundings when sparring. By doing this, you will reduce the risk of injury to yourself and people around you. This will also get you used to paying attention to your coach during a tournament match.
5. Shake hands before and after rolling
Depending on the person, a simple hand shake, a slap and a fist bump, or even a two handed hand shake and bow will start a round of sparring. Likewise one of these will be done at the end of the round. It is a simple show of respect to your training partner. If you are unsure which one to go with, just follow what others are doing at the academy.
6. Don’t be late for class
Being early or on time for class sends the message that you are dedicated to the art of BJJ. If you are often late and forgetting your belt and uniform, the instructor will eventually see this as disrespectful behaviour. If you are going to be late send a text message to the instructor. Also if you need to leave early it is a good idea to ask your instructor to be excused.
7. Always wash your gi after class but not your belt
Training with a clean gi will reduce the risk of a lot of skin infections like ring worm and staph. It is also very unpleasant for your partner if you are smothering them with your foul smelling gi. However the Brazilians say that it is bad luck to wash your belt so be warned.